In the early morning hours of July 7, 1944, Lieutenant Colonel William J. O'Brien, commander of the 1st Battalion, 105th Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Division, was killed in action at Saipan during a massive Japanese suicide attack. His last words were: 'Don't give them a damned inch! It was a gyokusai attack–a suicidal assault ordered by Imperial General Headquarters in which each Japanese soldier on the island was meant to die for the emperor and, in dying, was supposed to kill seven Americans. The Japanese were ordered to take no prisoners.
The gyokusai attack on the Tanapag plain has been described by many historians of World War II as the most devastating attack by the Japanese during the war. For his heroic conduct during that battle, Colonel O'Brien was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously. One of his soldiers, Sergeant Thomas A. Baker, who was also killed in the battle, was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, as well.
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Saipan is one of the islands in the Marianas chain, about 1,300 miles south of the Japanese home islands. It is a small, pistol-shaped island about 5 miles wide and 18 miles long, which had tremendous strategic value for the United States. First, Saipan straddled the major supply routes between the Japanese home islands and the Japanese garrisons in the Central Pacific; second, its airfields provided a major staging area for Japanese air attacks on the American fleet operating in the Central Pacific; and third, its occupation by the Americans would provide a base from which to launch air attacks against Tokyo and the Japanese home islands.
Indeed, the nearby island of Tinian would later serve as the base of operations for the planes that dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945. Those attacks led to the unconditional surrender of Japan and eliminated the need for an all-out assault on the home islands, which would have resulted in enormous casualties for the American forces.
The decision to attack the Marianas–reached at the highest levels of American command–was based on the belief that the shortest route to the conquest of the Japanese was through the Central Pacific rather than the Philippine Islands, as had been advocated by General Douglas MacArthur. The attack on Saipan was set for June 15, 1944. The companion islands of Guam and Tinian would be assaulted shortly thereafter.
Three divisions were assigned to the attack. The 2nd Marine Division, which included a number of veterans of the fighting on Guadalcanal; the 4th Marine Division, which had participated in the invasion of the Marshall Islands; and the Army's 27th Infantry Division, under the command of Maj. Gen. Ralph C. Smith. Overall command of the amphibious landing was the responsibility of Marine Lt. Gen. Holland M. Howlin' Mad Smith.
The 27th was a New York National Guard division that had been federalized in October 1940. In February 1942, it had been sent to the Hawaiian Islands to guard against possible Japanese attacks following the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The 27th was the first infantry division to leave the continental United States after Pearl Harbor. Ralph C. Smith was promoted to major general on November 20, 1942, and was placed in command of the 27th.
At the time of the Saipan invasion, the 27th Division consisted of three infantry regiments: the 105th Regiment from the Troy-Cohoes area of upstate New York (originally the 2nd New York Regiment, which fought with distinction during the Spanish-American War and World War I); the 106th Infantry Regiment from the Albany-Schenectady-Utica area (formerly the 10th New York Infantry, which also served in the Spanish-American War); and the 165th Infantry Regiment (formerly the 69th New York Infantry of Civil War and World War I fame) from the New York City area.
The invasion force was made up of 535 ships carrying more than 127,000 troops. Naval bombardment began on June 11, 1944, and lasted for more than three days. The Navy bombarded both coasts in order to confuse the Japanese as to the true site of the landings. The landings commenced on June 15, 1944, with the 2nd Marine Division hitting the Red and Green beaches north of Afetna Point and the 4th Marine Division landing on the Blue and Yellow beaches near the village of Charan Kanoa on the west side of the island. The 27th Division remained on board ship as a floating reserve.
Saipan had been occupied by the Japanese since World War I and had been colonized in the 1920s and 1930s. At the time of the American invasion, there were about 30,000 civilians on the island, together with about 26,000 army troops of the Japanese 43rd Division and 6,000 naval personnel. The military commander of the island was Lt. Gen. Yoshitsugu Saito.
After landing on June 15, the Marines met with fierce Japanese resistance. By the end of the day, the Marines had suffered more than 2,000 casualties. On the morning of June 16, the Japanese launched a strong counterattack against the 4th Marine Division in the Yellow Beach area just south of Charan Kanoa. They put a large number of civilians, including women and children, at the front of the attacking forces to create the impression that a surrender was taking place. The Marines were frustrated by having to hold their fire, but once they discovered the ruse they quickly annihilated the attackers.
When Admiral Raymond A. Spruance, commander of the Fifth Fleet and overall commander of the Saipan invasion, learned that the Japanese fleet was approaching the Marianas, he decided to place the 27th Division on shore to free up his fleet for the impending naval battle. Admiral Spruance subsequently led his naval forces to victory at the Battle of the Philippine Sea.
At dusk on June 16, elements of the 27th began to disembark. Two battalions of the 165th Infantry landed on Blue Beach and established contact with the 4th Marine Division. Early on June 17, the 105th Infantry landed near Agingan Point on the extreme southwest coast of the island and moved to support the 165th Infantry in an attack on Aslito airfield. By 10 a.m. on June 18, Aslito had been captured. The 105th then moved to the eastern end of the airfield, where the men dug in for the night.
Early in the morning of June 19, the 1st Battalion of the 105th resumed the attack eastward toward Nafutan Point. The battalion was led by Colonel O'Brien, described by the division historian as a cocky little rooster of a man who couldn't stand still.
At Ridge 300, the 1st Battalion ran into heavy Japanese machine-gun fire. Colonel O'Brien obtained permission to shift the attack from the west to the north of Ridge 300 so that he would be able to utilize American tank support and perhaps outflank the Japanese on the ridge. Late in the afternoon of June 19, the 1st Battalion, supported by tanks, began its attack, but it bogged down and Colonel O'Brien decided to have his men dig in for the night.
Sergeant Thomas Baker of Company A, 1st Battalion, moved out of his position toward the ridge and observed the location of several of the enemy's positions. He borrowed a bazooka from one of his comrades and, under heavy enemy fire, walked into the field, calmly knelt down and fired his weapon into an enemy gun position, knocking it out with his second round. He then walked back to his company with Japanese bullets flying all around him.
At about noon on June 20, the 1st Battalion moved south and west of Ridge 300 toward Nafutan Point, with the goal of outflanking it the next day. That night there was a lot of enemy activity along the 1st Battalion's front. One Japanese soldier ran in front of Company A, shouting, Shoot me! Shoot me! at the top of his lungs. It was a ruse to get the Americans to reveal their positions, a ruse that did not work.
On June 21, three tanks supporting the advance of the 1st Battalion were hit by intense enemy fire as they approached the Japanese position on the ridge. The tanks were forced to button up; they then began firing on Companies A and C by mistake. Colonel O'Brien, who was on the line with the fighting troops, tried frantically to reach the lead tank by radio but was unable to make contact. He ran through heavy enemy fire to the lead tank, mounted it and banged on the turret with his .45-caliber pistol until he got the driver's attention. He then ordered the tank to change direction and attack the enemy's position.
O'Brien remained on top of the tank throughout the engagement, fully exposed to enemy fire. When the battle was over, he crawled down from the tank, holstered his .45 and picked up a wounded infantryman, who he then carried to the rear for medical treatment.
The second phase of the Saipan battle began on June 21, when General Howlin' Mad Smith ordered the 27th Division to turn northward and attack up the center of the island, supported by the 2nd and 4th Marine divisions, which were given the responsibility of attacking up the coastlines and isolating the Japanese defenders in the northern portion of the island.
The 2nd Battalion of the 105th was assigned to mop up the Japanese still on Nafutan Point. The other two battalions of the 105th went north with the balance of the division. Smith had given the 2nd Battalion an impossible task. It had to cover a front of almost 3,000 yards with a force of fewer than 600 men against a Japanese force of almost 1,200. Inevitably, the Japanese broke through the 2nd Battalion's position on June 27, but they were annihilated by the 3rd Battalion of the 105th, plus Marine units that were then in the vicinity of Aslito airfield. Nafutan Point was declared secure on June 27.
In the meantime, on June 23, the rest of the 27th Division had attacked north through what became known as Death Valley. The nightmarish terrain between Mount Tapotchau and what American soldiers had dubbed Purple Heart Ridge featured sheer cliffs and hills. The valley itself was a plateau of open farmland about three quarters of a mile wide. The Japanese had hidden in the caves along the cliffs. Units of the 27th moving through the valley, including the 106th Infantry Regiment, which had just rejoined the division, were subject to intense enemy fire. The soldiers had to advance through wooded areas at the opening of a plateau onto a flat plain where the Japanese held the high ground on both sides.
The enemy had carefully prepared artillery, mortar and machine-gun positions on the cliffs, which controlled the entire area. One observer compared the Americans' situation to that of the British Light Brigade, which charged the Russians at Balaclava.The 2nd and 4th Marine divisions moved up the coasts of the island with little or no opposition. The 27th Division's progress through Death Valley was slowed by the difficult terrain as well as the Japanese opposition.
Claiming that the 27th Division was not advancing fast enough, on June 24 Smith decided to relieve the commander of the 27th Division, Maj. Gen. Ralph C. Smith. Ostensibly, the leader of the 27th Division was relieved of his command because he had contravened an order regarding the disposition of troops at Nafutan Point, and the 27th had failed to make a coordinated attack on June 23, which had jeopardized the Marine troops attacking up the coasts. Ralph Smith was replaced by Maj. Gen. Sanderford Jarman. The incident triggered a rivalry between the Army and Marine Corps that has never been satisfactorily resolved.
On June 26, two battalions of the 165th Infantry, along with the 1st Battalion of the 105th Infantry, joined the 4th Marine Division in an attack toward the villages of Donnay and Hashigoru on the east side of the island. The attack met with heavy Japanese opposition.
On June 27, the advance continued, but the soldiers ran into heavy Japanese gunfire from a high ridge above Donnay. The next day, Colonel O'Brien decided to flank the Japanese position on the ridge rather than assault it frontally. He organized a large patrol to work its way around to the rear of the enemy position.
When the patrol action stalled, O'Brien left his covered position and ran across a field exposed to enemy fire, armed only with a pistol, to reach his troops. He took charge of the patrol and led his men into a vicious firefight with the Japanese. Led by O'Brien, the men burst into a small canyon, taking the enemy completely by surprise.
Within 10 minutes, the soldiers of the 105th had captured a 77mm fieldpiece and five machine guns, and had killed or routed all the Japanese in the ridge position. By nightfall, all of Obie's Ridge, as it came to be called, was in American hands. The 1st Battalion held the position through the night and the next day against numerous Japanese counterattacks.
June 30 was the beginning of the end of the Saipan battle. The Japanese were observed moving north toward Marpi Point, and it was clear that this was to be their last stand. On July 1, the 4th Marine Division moved north and east toward Marpi Point, the 2nd Marine Division moved up the west coast toward Tanapag, and the 27th Division continued its attack up the center of the island.
The morning of July 2 was dark and rainy. O'Brien's battalion had been ordered to close up behind the 3rd Battalion of the 105th, now positioned near Charan Danshii, in the center of the island. The position was a proverbial hornet's nest, exposed to heavy Japanese fire from guns along the hillside.
The 1st Battalion was to move through the 3rd Battalion until it hooked up with the left flank of the 165th Infantry and the right flank of the 106th Infantry. The movement was hazardous because it required an advance in daylight across 1,700 yards of open ground. Since the area had not yet been cleared of Japanese forces, there was a very real chance that the soldiers of the 1st Battalion of the 105th could dig in for the night and find the Japanese both in front of them and behind them.
At 2:40 p.m. on July 2, O'Brien ordered his troops to march double time in order to reduce their exposure to enemy fire. The battalion reached its objective on schedule and dug in on the left flank of the 165th for the night. Sergeant Baker of Company A, recognizing that the Japanese might attack from the rear, volunteered to go back and eliminate as many of the enemy as possible. He and three other soldiers from the 105th killed 18 Japanese troops in the space of an hour. At one point, Baker walked directly into a concrete pillbox and killed four Japanese soldiers with one burst of fire before they could get off a shot.
On July 3, Garapan, on the west coast of Saipan, was captured by the 2nd Marine Division, and the 27th Division continued its movement north toward Tanapag Harbor.
By late afternoon on July 4, the 105th had secured Flores Point and had pushed forward up the beach. The 2nd Battalion of the 105th, which had been at Nafutan Point, then rejoined the regiment. O'Brien's battalion moved past Hara-Kiri Gulch (so named because a number of Japanese in caves along the cliffs had killed themselves by detonating grenades) and advanced along the beach until they were about 1,200 yards south of Makunshka.
O'Brien's orders were explicit. Keep going, he said. No matter what else happens, keep going. In spite of intense enemy fire, the advance proceeded rapidly. By dark on July 6, the 1st Battalion was dug in on the east side of a railroad track that ran north-south about 150 yards west of the beach near the Tanapag plain.
The 2nd Battalion of the 105th was dug in on the west side of the railroad track, but there was a gap between the 1st and 2nd battalions' positions. O'Brien immediately recognized the problem and requested reinforcements. When he was told none were available, he ordered all his anti-tank weapons moved into position to cover the gap. He also placed the battalion's heavy machine guns in position to protect the perimeter against a possible Japanese attack.
On the evening of July 6, the 1st and 2nd battalions of the 105th were dug in about 2,000 yards north of the regimental command post, roughly 1,400 yards south of Makunshka. Later that evening, the Japanese began probing the perimeter looking for a weak spot. The perimeter attacks continued all night. At about 4:45 a.m. on July 7, the Japanese launched the gyokusai attack. (Gyokusai can be roughly translated as breaking the jewel, a reference to the destruction of an entire Japanese unit. Such large-scale suicide attacks were made only at the behest of Imperial General Headquarters.) The exact number of attackers will never be known, but it is estimated that more than 4,000 Japanese participated in this last-ditch assault on the American forces near Makunshka.
The Japanese had begun to assemble for the attack shortly after dark on July 6. All wounded soldiers who were not able to walk and bear arms were killed under the orders of the Japanese commanders. The Japanese commanders themselves then committed suicide. Every man able to walk was armed with whatever weapons were available. There were not enough rifles to go around, so some of the men carried sticks, rocks or whatever they could find.
The attackers came on like madmen, drunk on sake and beer. They were led by about 200 officers waving swords and yelling at the top of their lungs. In front of the charging masses a half-dozen men held aloft a large red flag, like the vanguard in a dramatic pageant. Behind them came the fighting troops and, most incredible of all, hundreds of limping and hobbling men with bandaged heads, on crutches and scarcely armed.
Major Edward McCarthy, then in command of the 2nd Battalion of the 105th and one of the few officers of the regiment to survive the attack, described the scene as follows: It reminded me of one of those old cattle-stampede scenes of the movies. The camera is in a hole in the ground and you see the herd coming and they leap up and over you and are gone. Only the Japs just kept coming and coming. I didn't think they'd ever stop.
The Japanese troops swept down the narrow tracks of the railroad, which skirted the beach, and smashed into the dug-in soldiers of the 105th with a vengeance. The Americans fought well and with tenacity, their weapons positioned so that the Japanese had to climb over their own dead in order to get at them.
Still the Japanese soldiers came on, overrunning the two battalions of the 105th as well as the 10th Marine Artillery battery, which had been placed in the rear of the 105th Regiment's position. The Marines fought hard, but they were outnumbered and were forced to abandon their fieldpieces to the enemy. The following day a number of Marines were found on the field, killed in hand-to-hand combat.
The fighting was furious. O'Brien, who was idolized by his men, took the lead in opposing the Japanese attack. Left-handed, he always carried a pistol in a shoulder holster under his right armpit. According to the division historian, O'Brien was without doubt responsible for the great stand made by the men of his battalion when the Japanese first hit the perimeter. He stood his ground with a pistol in each hand, encouraging his men to hold off the enemy. He was seriously wounded in the shoulder but refused to be evacuated.
O'Brien ran up and down the line, exhorting his troops to hold. When the Japanese broke through, he grabbed a rifle from a wounded man in a foxhole and fired on the enemy until he was out of ammunition. He then manned a .50-caliber machine gun on an abandoned jeep, firing on the Japanese until once again he ran out of ammunition. When last seen alive, O'Brien was surrounded by saber-wielding Japanese officers and the bodies of the Japanese he had killed. At least 30 dead Japanese soldiers were found near his body.
An eyewitness to the battle, Sergeant John G. Breen of Company A, 1st Battalion, 105th Infantry, stated that Obie was one of the boys that day. He died right on the front line with us. His last words–heard over the shrieks of the charging Japanese, the cries of his wounded soldiers and the deafening gunfire–were, Don't give them a damned inch.
Sergeant Baker was also a hero in that battle. Although seriously wounded, he refused to be removed from the battlefield and insisted that he be left to die rather than risk the lives of his buddies. He asked to be placed in a sitting position against a small telephone pole and was given a cigarette and a fully loaded pistol. Two days later, Baker's body was found in exactly that position with eight enemy soldiers dead in front of him.
The Battle of Saipan was a devastating defeat for the Japanese. More than 30,000 Japanese soldiers died, along with an untold number of civilians, many of whom committed suicide by jumping off the cliffs near Marpi Point. In front of the 105th's positions on the Tanapag plain were 2,295 dead Japanese. Another 2,016 bodies lay in the rear of the 105th's position, for a total of 4,311 Japanese killed in the attack on the beaches at Tanapag.
American casualties were also heavy. The 1st and 2nd battalions of the 105th were virtually wiped out. In slightly more than 12 hours of fighting, those units sustained losses of 406 killed and 512 wounded. In the 1st Battalion, only one officer, Lieutenant John Mulhearn of Company B, emerged unscathed. Major McCarthy of the 2nd Battalion survived, but all his staff and company commanders were either killed or wounded.
Total casualties for the Marines and soldiers who fought on Saipan amounted to 786 officers and 13,438 enlisted men killed, wounded or missing in action.
This article was written by Francis A. O'Brie and originally appeared in the May 1997 issue of World War II magazine.
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My dad, William F. Haessig, served in the 27th Infantry Division. He is still alive at 91yrs.
This article gave me a little more info, than my dad can remember. I want my grandchildren to know what it was like and to remember what happened before them. Thank You, Sandra Curry
Sandra,
My dad has passed away, but was in the 27th infantry Division company F
Lt/Captain Ford Martin – wonder if your Dad and mine fought together?
My Father Arthur J. Gavin was too in the 27th. He passed at 65 years old in 1986. Dad was awarded the Bronze Star at Saipan. There is a facinating book by Francis O'Brian "Battling for Saipan". It covers the unit from Troy, N.Y. to Saipan. This is a great read and a treasure to pass down to your children. Bless your Dad and his courage, honor and service.
Marty Gavin, Engineman Chief Petty Officer, U.S.N. Retired
I was born in Brooklyn and raised in Queens.
Marty,
My Grandfather was also awarded numerous medals and ribbons, to include the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, etc. He was also awarded the Conspicuous Service Medal from the State of New York. My Grandfather's name was Irving Datz he passed away in 2003, he served in the 27th Division, 3rd Battalion, 106th Infantry HQ Company. I would love to compare research and notes to see if you have came across my Grandfathers name.
Does anyone know any info on my father killed in action in
saipan june 15th 1944. His name is Charles Ado Dunagin 1st LT.
US Marines. If anyone has info or can tell me where to find info.
Hey, I am always looking for information on my Uncle who was also KIA on Saipan. It took years but did find out and got his medals. I am on vacation now but can hopefully give you some info. to aid you in looking. Just send me a line and I will reply in a short time. My uncle was a PFC 1st. class with the 4th Marine Division
My uncle was 4th marines on Saipan. Was wondering how you got info on your uncle.
My dad, John Henry House, was with the 2nd Marine Division on
Saipan. He received the Silver Star for his actions there. He
stayed with a wounded Marine all night and then pulled him to
safety in the early morning hours. We have never known the
man's name. It happened on June 24, 1942. If anyone has any
knowledge of who this man might be, I would love to have that
information. I can be reached at chd1023@gmail.com. My dad's
best friend in the Marines was Noble Cupito. I have pictures of
them with a duck they won who went with them to Tarawa.
Siwash was the first "Marine" to hit the beach on Tarawa. When
they finally made it to the beach he was sitting on a coconut log
squawking! He was featured in Life magazine. If anyone has
information about that time or my dad, I would love to hear from
you!
My dad, Sam Suizzo fought with the Second Division Marines and
was wounded on Saipan. (His first name was originally
Salvatore, but he legally changed it to Sam — I'm not certain if
that was before or after the war). He passed away in 1996 so I'm
not able to ask him, but I'm trying to get more information about
what happened when he was wounded as well as information
about his friends.
When I was a child we used to go to reunions every summer of the
Second Division, we went to St. Paul around 1968 or 1969, San
Diego in 1972 and Boston in 1976.
I'd love to hear from other children of Second Division Marines.
Even though my dad only served a few years, it shaped his life
forever.
My great-uncle William "Perry" Williams was a 1SG in the 105th
during WWII. Later promoted and sent to OCS, he was KIA as an
officer serving with another unit in Afua, New Guinea on AUG 6,
1944. Trying to piece together some of my family history and
any information would be appreciated.
Great article and let us never forget our veterans.
Battling for Saipan by Francis O'Brian it follows the 27th Div. from N.Y. to Saipan
i would love to hear from someone who know the history of c.o. 806 th engr.avn. bn. hq island command sapipan. my father never taked about the war….i would like to know more about his life…then….thank for any information….Sig
Mr. Michael Dunagin:
Francis "Pappy" Fagan of the USMC, Chicago White Sox, and Chicago Police had the Siwash with him forever. I worked with Pappy in the 60's and 70's on his side job at McDade's Catalog House in Chicago. We had the picture of Pappy with "the Duck" on the dock. The duck was sticking out of the top of his Ruck Sack as thery were landing. I don't know if it was Life or Look, but it was a cover picture. The landing may have been Saipan.
Siwash drank whiskey late in life when I was a kid he'd walk down the bar at the "Showboat Lounge" in the 7900 S. Block of Western Ave. in Chicago. Pappy lived upstairs and tended bar downstairs. Siwash would walk the bar and Pappy would pour him a drink then Siwash would walk over and take a dump in an unsuspecting customer's shot glass. My father, 4th Marines, would roar.
When Siwash Died Pappy went on a drunk and kept Siwash in the Freezer. A Marine Colonel came the Take Siwash to the Marine Corps Museum. Pappy and he closed the door and the fight was on, the Colonel left without the duck that time. I don't know if they got it in the end.
Lincoln Park Zoo claims they had him in their pond at the end of his life, but Pappy had him in the Showboat so he must have gone home at night.
They actually won two ducks in New Zealand in the bar, but they ate one. Siwash was a kindred spirit and good drinker and Pappy wouldn't let them eat (Her, she laid an egg once) Siwash.
Pappy is short for "Bapsheen", meaning Little Baby in Gaelic, Pappy's Father was Old Country Coastal Irish and spoke with a "Fisher People" Brogue and could not say Paddy or Patrick. The fisher people are of mixed race and nationality going back to the Armada wreck and beyond on the coast and have a ruddy olive complexion and jet black hair…Pappy when I was a kid looked like that. He was a Giant of a man but diabetes took him down hard. I believe he died in 1988 in Midlothian, IL.
Det.Pat Sullivan
My uncle Alvin Lamar Cammack was killed on July 6th trying to save another marine wounded on the battle field. He was in the 4th Marine Division. If anyone has any information on my Uncle Lamar please let me know. Thanks Cal
I am a first cousin of lt. william perry wiliams. I have information for mark coonrad regarding lt williams. Is there an email address where i can reach him?
William,
I haven't checked this site for a while and just noticed your reply over a year later. Please email me with any info you are willing to share. I am the grandson of Emma Wicks from New York.
Please respond.
Thanks
To Det. Pat Sullivan: Most of your reminiscences are correct,but a few are not quite on target. Siwash didn't live into the 70's,he did live for a few years at the Lincoln Park Zoo,after which he did end up in Quantico,at the Marine Museum. Also,Fagans nickname was really BAPPY,tho most policeman called him Pappy. I know these things because I grew up with him…..but I called him Dad.
He passed away at my home in Frankfort, after a nite on the town,at one of his old haunts,the Lakeside,or as some called it,Serpes. You were right, he was a giant of a man,'til the day he died.
Jude Fagan Carroll
My great uncle Izzy Aronovitz was killed in the battle of Saipan. He also volunteered in a night mission during Tarawa to take out an artilary gunner and was awarded a silver medal. Any other info on him would be appreciated. Thanks
My uncle John G. Franco, 106 Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Division is MIA August 17, 1944 while fighting on Saipan. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
My great Uncle was kia on July 15, 1944 in Saipan. His name was PlSgt. John W. Whiteside (AKA Jay)
He was awarded the Silver & Bronze star.
I am looking for any and all information and it would be more than appreciated.
hsmith@ilgi.com
My Uncle, William Thomas Cessna from Bedford PA, served with the Military Police Company of the 4th Marine Division on Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima. I would love to hear from anyone who knew him or has any information about him. He was wounded on Iwo Jima around D+9. Thank you,
Kit Cessna
327 Grassy Point Rd.
Apex, NC 27502
919-267-4324 (home)
225-337-4712 (cell)
Spincutter@aol.com
My father fought on Saipan with the 4th Marine Div., 25 bat., he finally told us in his later years what he did there. He had to kill a number of Japanese who fought to the death. Dad fought like a Marine, he was a killer in the S. Pacific, but he was a kind and gentle man all of his life after he came home. Dad lived a good life in honor of his buddies who paid the utimate sacrifice, he married once, raised 3 kids, worked only one job all his life, took us all to church, paid for our schooling, and made sure we always knew he loved us. A damn great American, and a loving father. They just dont get any better then Dad.
How come there is never a mention of the 318th Fighter Group and the presentance of the Hq in the Block House situated on Aslito Air Field and the key people of the group taking over the Air Field?? Above all, the major part that the Fighter Pilots played on the advance into Tokyo? This always puzzles me lke the 318th never existed. Al Moutran, Captain USAF (Ret) On Saipan, T/Sgt. Chief Clerk Fighter Group Operations.
Hey the nexy++ person who gets on and has a family member who was in the battle of saipan, i would love to here their stories. They were all brave men and i am forever thankful to everyone who fought there.
My name is Fernando Falig I was born and raised on saipan. It would be very interesting to hear about the brave soldiers who, thanks to them, my island is not runned by the Japanese.
Please dont be shy to talk about it, be proud of it and know that my people are in depth to all of your family members or yourselves.
If you would like to share your story or maybe it was one of your relatives please I implore you to email me at fredfalig_8@yahoo.com
My father Marvin Pointer(1916-2004) was a SeaBee in the Navy. He described
many scenes to me about SAIPAN like finding a child's foot on the beach and he and his buddie Junior Bowling(Western Grove,Ark.) walking between live
handgrenades scattered on the ground and the Japanese soldier popping out
from behind a tree and hitting a buddy on the head with a Samarai sword and
miraculously the sword hit him with the flat side of the blade and they immediately shot the enemy soldier. Also a bulldozer was clearing a roadway
and hit a landmine which blew the blade off about 30 ft up in the air,the driver was killed. He told me about the a woman running screaming down the road and when his buddies ran to her to find out what was wrong she pulled out a hand grenade and slapped it to the side of her head killing them all and the
Booby Traps like a shiny bayonet that a soldier might pick up for a souvenier
laying on top of a dead body and when picked up it detonates a grenade.
..well.. there was lots more but you get the picture….my Dad was there right
after the battle and there were still snipers in the trees. ..clyde..Bastrop,Texas
This sounds familiar. I remember my father John Wallace Wilson, mentioning Saipan. He didn't talk about it until late in life before he passed in 1988 and then only rarely. My mother would tell how he would have nightmares in the years after the war. He went to his grave with scares from jungle rot. I'm not sure what division he served in. He was with an outfit that would rebuild roads and airstrips but many times with a rifle in hand when the area wasn't secure.
When the Navy pulled out of these islands (Saipan?) it cut supplies. They survived on mango's and wild boar. He said they would've given anything for fresh vegetables during this time.
Snipers in the trees where common from what I gather. He had a buddy from Texas (who collected ears in a jar) killed by one.
Two things that stuck with me when he told them to me late one night.
The Japanese would often take women from areas they captured to the front line for entertainment. A fact I did not know until after my father passed. The reason this stuck with me is Dad said he came upon a foxhole and found a Japanese soldier with his girlfriend and could still remember the look in their eyes right before he put a bullet in each of them. I think this was one of those things that gave him nightmares.
The second was how he knew he was going to die if they had to attack the Japanese mainland. The Japanese didn't surrender and rarely took prisoners.
He mentioned the caves and what was in them (sake, silk, and soldiers). He told about a sniper climbing from a tree at night in the middle of camp only to find razor blades from shaving kits stuck in the tree which was a big surprise to all.
He mentioned a couple of other things that made me realize just how awful war can be for what it does to human beings and how grateful we should be for what our soldiers do on our behalf.
From what I recall I believe he was at Guadalcanal, the Philippines and a couple of other places. He ended up as a drill instructor for a few months on the West coast before he finally got his discharge after the war. Having a former DI for a father makes for some fun memories when it was time to wake up in the morning. He was and still is my hero.
Roger, it sounds like you father was in the SeaBees; they were the ones doing that kind of work on the islands. My dad was also there with the 39th NCB, attatched to the 2nd Marine Division. My dad suffered the same fate of nightmares and jungle rot on the feet as well as bouts of malaria. He very rarely spoke of his experiences, but he did mention that he and another guy named Zaputo from Boston were the only northerners in an all southern battalion. Did your dad every mention Kwajalein, Guam, Enewetok, Tinian, Rota? If so, I think they may have been together through that mess.
My Mom's twin, and my namesake, Kenneth Wilburn Gaston, 2nd Marine Division, was wounded during the second wave hitting the Saipan beaches. He died shortly afterwards. There was some confusion as to whether he was buried on the island or later at sea. I would like some info on this if anyone could help. A search of Marine records has proved futile. Thanks
My great grandpa is John S. Beddia. He was part of the 105th infantry , 27th division, 2nd battalion of the army. He was reported M.I.A on July 7th 1944 in Saipan. A few months later, his dog tag was recovered, and he was assumed to be dead. He left behind an album of his time in the service however. It shows you pictures of the missions that he went on, his time he spent in his camp, and his intrests such as boxing, swimming, and most of all; having a good time. The most important thing he left behind, however was pictures of people he knew. I am very interested to find out about him, and what happened to him. If anyone knew him, knows people who knew him, or knows anything about him, I would like to find out. Thanks a lot!!!
My father was in the 105th 2nd Battalion E Company second squad. He died in 1994. I have a photo of when they were on Hawaii.
Eric, I hope you see this. I have something which may be of great interest to you. Please contact me. tnfowler@att.net
I have a friend still living that served in 2nd Bn, 105th Regiment of the 27th Div. on Saipan. He missed Okinawa because of dengi fever but stayed on Saipan looking for MIAs His name is Carlson Lewis.
My father served with the 27th Division on Saipan and Okinawa. If still alive he would be 89 in November. I think he was in the 165th. Does anybody remember him? John Patrick Balcerowski. Sometimes went as Jack.
In reply to some of the inquiries here, I recommend reading two books:
Howlin' Mad vs. the Army by Dr. Harry A. Gailey
&
Battlling for Saipan by Frank O'Brien
They will shed a great deal of light on the Battle of Saipan.
My father was in Company M, 105th Infantry. It was a heavy weapons company with a better defensive position the night of the big banzai. He spoke of another man in the company, Harry Travis of Gloversville, NY, as firing a water cooled machine gun, mowing down Japs.
My great-uncle was Lt. Col. William J. O'Brien who received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his sacrifice during the Battle of Saipan. My second cousin, Frank O'Brien wrote the book Battling for Saipan and the record of this battle "Battle of Saipan" that I just read. My father, Jack Prout of Troy, NY was best friends with Karen Suizzo Morris' uncle "Perry Williams". It's a small world to read about both of these brave men while doing research for our family tree. The other soldier who is quoted in the "Battle of Saipan" was my father's cousin, John Breen.
Frank has since died but this is a great testimony to the time and effort he put into this research and book. I know he'd be proud to see how many have read and commented on it.
I read and loved your cousin Frank's book; Battling for Saipan. My Father Arthur Joseph Gavin fought there and was awarded the Bronze Star. His brother Gerry lost his mind landing on the beaches with all the carnage that surrounded him.
Susan Prout McMahon:
I spoke with Frank O'Brien shortly before publication of his book. He mentioned he was ill, but didn't dwell on it.
I have been watching the HBO miniseries The Pacific. It is my hope they get the Battle of Saipan historically accurate, not just more PR for the Marine Corps.
I WAS A QUARTERMASTER THIRD CLASS ON THE USS DE GRASSE AP164. OUR SHIP CARRIED ABOUT 1,000 OF THE ARMY TROOPS TO SAIPAN ALONG WITH THEIR EQUIPMENT AND AMMUNITION. I AM NOW 84 YEARS OLD, HOWEVER I REMEMBER LT. COL. WILLAM J. O'BRIEN VERY WELL. AS HE NEEDED AN OFFICE AND HIS OFFICERS AND MEN WERE INVOLVED WITH FOLLLOWING THE INVASION AS THE MARINES LANDED. AN OFFICE FOR HIS STAFF WAS SET UP IN THE WHEELHOUSE. I HAD THE ONLY ENCLOSED OFFICE IN THE WHEELHOUSE AND THE SHIPS CAPTAINS QUARTERS WERE RIGHT BEHIND MY OFFICE.
HE WAS THE FINEST OFFICER I EVER DEALT WITH IN MY NAVAL SERVICE. YES, I WAS AN ENLISTED MAN AND A SAILOR AND HE WAS BOTH AN OFFICER AND A SOLDIER. ALTHOUGH IT WAS NOT NECESSARY OR USUALLY DONE. HE PERSONALLY ASKED ME VERY POLITELY TO LET HIM USE MY OFFICE JOINTLY WITH HIM. HE SAID HE DID NOT WANT TO INTRUDE ON ME.I UNDERSTOOD HE HAD BEEN AN ENLISTED MAN FOR NINE YEARS BEFORE BECOMING AN OFFICER. WE HAD SEVERAL CONVERSATIONS. TOGETHER IN THE OFFICE. I WAS JUST NINETEEN AND HE WAS ABOUT FORTY THREE.
DURING THE FIRST DAYS OF THE INVASION, I ASKED HIM TO EXPLAIN TO ME HOW THE ARMY USED THEIR MAPS AND HE EXPLAINED THAT TO ME. HE THEN ASKED ME TO TEACH HIM HOW THE NAVY USED OUR CHARTS, WHICH I EXPLAINED TO HIM. HE WAS EXTREMELY COURTEOUS TO ME. WE COULD AND DID JOKE WITH EACH OTHER. ALTHOUGH IT WOULD HAVE BEEN IMPROPER, HE TOLD ME TO CALL HIM BILL. I DID NOT; BUT I KNEW HE WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN UPSET IF I HAD CALLED HIM BILL. HE ALWAYS CALLED ME BOB. HIS MEN REALLY LIKED HIM AND SOME SARGENTS TOLD ME HOW WELL THEY RESPECTED HIM..
WHEN HE WENT ASHORE, I STILL HAD SOME OF HIS STAFF'S RADIOS AND BATTLE MAPS AND USED THEM TO FOLLOW THE LINES OF BATTLE. I WAS TRULY SORRY TO LEARN OF HIS DEATH AS THE INVASION WOUND DOWN. I HAVE TROUBLE IN REMEMBERING NAMES, BUT REMEMBERED HIM IMMEDIATELY WHEN I HEARD HIS NAME ON A TV HISTORY PROGRAM A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO.. I HAD NOT KNOWN OF HIS CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR UNTIL THEN. HE CERTAINLY DESERVED IT.
HE, HAD TOLD OUR CAPTAIN THAT HE HAD MADE TOO MANY INVASIONS BEFORE SAIPAN AND HE HAD A FEELING HE WOULD NOT SURVIVE THAT ONE.
HE WAS AN OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUAL, I SERVED BOTH WITH AND UNDER SEVERAL GOOD OFFICERS, BUT I ALWAYS THOUGHT THAT HE WAS THE BEST I EVER MET. I ALWAYS KNEW I WOULD NEVER EVER FORGET HIM.
ROBERT L.MCANALLY
6200 QUAIL RIDGE ROAD
BARTLESVILLE. OK. 74006
I'm trying to research my uncle, Martin Foery's, military service during WWII. He was the XO of the 27th Infantry Division, 3d Battalion, 165th Infantry, but took over as Battalion Commander after 27 June 44. At the time he was a Major.
He was awarded the Silver Star on Saipan which was listed in HQ, 27th Infantry Division, G.O. No. 47. He went on to become a Major General and commanded the 42nd Infantry Division till he retired in the early 70's.
Anyone having information they would like to share would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks for the help, Andrew
Bob, you'd love to read Battling for Saipan by Frank O'Brien.
Andrew, I don't have any personal info, but Dan Markle is the historian for the 27th. His phone number is 585-482-0287
Joel
Thanks !!!!
Andrew
My Uncle Capt. Frank Mursko served and died on Saipan. He was from New Haven Conn. If anyone reading this knew him or served with him, please respond. Thanks and thanks to all those who have served the U.S.A. in the Military.
Was he engaged to Rose Counihan? I am her niece.
My father, Benford Hamlin served in the 2nd Marine division and was in the first wave at Saipan. He was a radio operator (JASCO). His radio had a hole blown into it on the beach by a mortor shell. The radio saved his life and he stayed on the beach helping wounded marines. An officer told him he was putting him in for the silver star for his actions on Saipan. The officer was killed soon after and my dad never received a silver star. He never would have asked for it on his own, so I am going to try and get one for him if possible. If anyone has any information on him it would be a great help. He is still living in Rockford, Illinois. Some of his friends were William Condon, Raymond Heaton, and Pete Niblo. Thank you. My email: msh1965@aol.com
My father, Ovila R. St. Michel as in Company I, 106th Infantry, 27th Division and fought on Saipan and Okinawa. He was shot in the neck on Saipan and returned to 27th to fight on Okinawa. He passed away, ironically, on Dec 7, 2008. He would tell me stories when I was young but I recently wanted to find out more about what he went through. I happend upon the following history of the 27th that may help enlighten may of you who had family members who were part of the 27th.
http://dmna.state.ny.us/historic/reghist/wwii/infantry/27thInfDiv/27thInfDivMain.htm
Interesting that the 26th Division "Yankee Division" (they went to Europe) included men who hailed from the New England states, but not exclusively. My Dad was from Maine and was assigned to the 27th who included primarily men from New York state.
Thank you for this forum and may God bless all those who served.
I hope this entry helps you answers some of your question regarding your loved ones.
does anyone know ALEXANDER C. BOUCHARD, A COMPANY COMMANDER OF THE 105TH BATTALION, KIA? REPLACE BY HIS XO, ROGER PYRE, ALSO KIA IN SAIPAN. WE FOUND HIS DOG TAG,BUT UNABLE TO LOCATE RELATIVE OR FAMILIES. DO YOU SERVE UNDER HIS COMMAND? I APPRECIATE IF YOU EMAIL ME AT hotrod_chevyman1@yahoo.com. he is in the 27th infantry regiment of the NEW YORK NATIONAL GARD DERVE IN SAIPA DURING THE INVATION OF OPERATION FORAGER. THANK YOU.
My father looked for years for a fellow named Tom Collins before he died. Collins was in Company M, 105th Infantry, 27th Division and survived the war. Collins lived in Kansas City, but that's a very common name there. If you know of a Tom Collins from Company M, please drop me an email at fishbum55@yahoo.com.
My father John P. Balcerowski Sr. was in the 27th Div 165 Reg. He faought on Siapan and Okinawa. Any information would be approciated.
The transport that carried my father to Saipan had a crane operator named Ceasar Romero (actor).This ship was operated by the Merchant Marines under the Navy command. Ring any bells for anybody?
Yes, my father served in the 27th division, 105th Infantry Regiment, Co K 3rd battlaion . He was on the same ship bound the Saipan. He spoke highly of Ceasar Romero…they had many interesting talks!
Hope this helps!
My father met Cesar Romero on Saipan and had his picture taken with him. After the fighting subsided, Romero came to the island to sign autographs, etc.
My father served with the 27th division, 105th Infantry, Co. K, 3rd battaltion.
He was on the same ship! He always spoke highly of Mr. Romero…they had many long talks over the weeks aboard.
Hope this helps!
Company K? Was your father from Amserdam, NY?
Looking for anyone that may still be living that may have served with my uncle . James Wesley Miller PFC Fourth Marine Division. KIA on the west coast of Saipan . Wounded in action but refused medical attention so he could still fight . Any way if any one has info on this unit would love to hear from you. He was from Alabama. Thanks in advance James Miller
Hi,
I am wondering if anyone has information on my late uncle, Private First Class Robert Luzern Deaver who was killed in Saipan in 1944. He was in regiment 106. I never knew him and would like to find out anything about him. I know he married just before going over there. Thanks for your help. Diane B-K
Hi Diane,my grandpas uncle(they were same age) Cpl. Shirley West of 106th Reg. was kia on aug 1,1944..i was wondering if you might have run across that name during your research? I would love to find out more on my relative..thanks,jodi
Updated information.
geoffrey.milligan@us.army.mil
is the current historian for the 27th Division.
My Dad (Jim Zehnder) was a Pharm Mate Second Class( Corpsman) attached to the 4th Marines 2nd Battalion 25th Regiment. He didn't talk about his experiences on Saipan at all. My Mom finally informed me about his (injuries and his MIA for 3 days after the first landing) after his death.I found out about everything after reading various articles pertaining to Saipan. He was troubled about his experience all the time until it eventally got the best of him in 1965 .He was only 49.RIP Big Jim. If any one knew my Dad or anything about him,I would appreciate your sharing.
Thanks
My father John Moses was in the Pacific Theatre. He was a Marine in the 2nd 6th 2nd. He is 88 and still alive. I research when I can and came upon this web site. He fought in Tarawa, was injured on Saipan, went back to Okinawa,Ryukyu Is. ,then occupied Japan on Nagasaki. The history of this war is amazing and makes me proud to have a father that helped shape our great country.
I am looking for any information about my Grandpa, Norman Anthony Cortese, who not only served during the Battle of Saipan, but also survived to serve in other battles. If anyone has any information on him or has heard the name before, I would greatly appreciate it!
My dad pfc. John C. Corbett tossed a stone into the sea at Siapan marking the end of the battle. Looking for book of world war 2 called the complete history of wwII. Where This article is.
ii
i
A couple of years after My Grandfather " Douglas Fairbanks Honaker " passed away , I learned that he was in The Battle of Sai Pan , and that he was assigned to protect a codetalker , Like in the movie with Nicolaus Cage. When He was alive My younger brother and i may have asked about the war , but he was unwilling to talk about it.I supposed he was'nt eager to let us know about war and killing , bloodshed and seeing fellow soldiers die in front of him.He learned that he had cancer and told an older cousin of mine all about it.I miss him and will always be proud of him . He made a promise to keep things secret about what he did in the Marines and while he was in the war.He Kept it til he learned that he was dying .I am prouder of him than anyone I can think of.He was honorable , and loved by many.He was a soldier , he was a Marine and will be missed.
My uncle,Pvt. Pearl LaVerne Hill of the 4th Marine Division, was killed on Saipan and I would love to hear from anyone who has any information concerning my uncle.
Mr. Thomas, I live on Saipan, I will go the the circle of Honor here at the Memorial Park, and search for your uncle's name. If I find it, I will be more than happy to take a pencil rubbing of it, and some pictures, and send them to you.
That would be fantastic and very much appreciated. You can contact me at krt222@mchsi.com
My Dad, Andy Kmosko, who is 93 would love to hear from anyone that he served with in Saipan 1941-1945 (27th Division, Company K, Third Battalion, 102nd Medical).
He has tried unsuccessfully to find any info on his buddy "Doc" Cohen. This unit was out of New York.
Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks.
AK
Correction: Company H not Company K
My friend. Carlson Lewis served in Co. D and HQ Co 105th Regiment on Saipan. He contracted Dengi Fever and did not go to Okinawa. He is 89 and doing well!
My father served with the 27th Division, 105th Infantry, Company I on Saipan and Okinawa. He is 95 years old and live in Minot, ND. If anyone has a father or grandfather who served with Cecil Bahn, "Rufus" as he was affectionated called, please contact me at jodie@daktel.com
My Dad, Andy Kmosko of 93 years, lives in NJ.
He served 4-1/2 years in the South Pacific (including Saipan) with the Twenty-Seventh Division, Company H, Third Battalion, 102nd Medical Regiment. Please contact me if you know anyone who was assigned or knows someone who was assigned to the same group. He is also looking for his buddy, "Doc" Cohen if you know of his whereabouts.
I have a copy of the Twenty-Seventh Division Pictorial History Yearbook 1940-41. His company is found on pages 382-383. I would be happy to look up any names for you as well.
Please contact me at: instepdrive@comcast.net
My Dad was assigned to the 102nd Medical Regiment of the 27th Division and was among the first troops of the 27th to arrive in Pearl Harbor after the Japanese attack. During his tour in the South Pacific from 1941-45 he helped in transporting the injured and assisted in the makeshift hospitals and operating rooms. He never spoke much about his experiences, especially with the severely wounded, but he did say there was one soldier despite losing both legs was the one who kept everyone's spirits up when things got tough. My Dad always wished that he could meet up with him stateside.
Please contact me if you have a relative or friend who might have been in the same company –
Andrew Kmosko from Plainfield, NJ – 27th Division (out of White Plains, NY), Company H, Third Battalion, 102nd Medical Regiment
My Mother knew our Father well and your mom…..She asked me to locate them if possible….Not war related but they all grew up in Plainfield Nj..My Mom's name is Ruth Halibrand……..she is still going strong at 88….and wondered about her best friend Mary!
Nancy,
Please contact me at instepdrive@comcast.net and I will put you in contact with my parents.
Thanks,
Andy
My uncle, Joe B. Fife, was in the Marines, 4th, first assault signal corp. I believe he was aboard the assault ship Callaway. Battles, Marshall Islands, Saipan, Tinian, Iwo Jima.
My mother just recently gave me my uncle's letters that he wrote to my dad. Both my dad and uncle are deceased.
I have many, many stories (60 letters) that my uncle shared in his letters. Mostly about friends,good experiences, etc.
He was called fox hole Joe. He said in is letters that his buddies gave him that name because he was always the first one to dive into his fox hole. He said in his letter he was only beat once and well the reason he was beat was because the other guy was already in his fox hole when the morter shell was approaching.
Anyone having any info for JOE B. Fife,
Please contact,
ldifife@netscape.net
Thanks
My cousin, Raymond Henderson, a tailgunner on a bomber, was shot down and killed at Saipan. Looking for info about those planes and wonder if anyone ever heard of him. He was originally from Chattanooga but had been living in Arizona and had worked in Morenci.
My dad, Kenneth Hand was in the Marines 2nd and was wounded in the battle. he received the Purple Heart. He never talked about the battle. I'm interested to know if anyone knew him. He passed away 3 years ago.
My Grandfather was in Headquarters Company 3rd Battalion 106th Infantry 27th Division. My grandfather was in numerous battles to include Marshall Islands, Saipan, Okinawa amongst others. My grandfather was able to confide and discuss stories of combat with me, he was also the recipient of numerous ribbons and medals. I would love to relive memories or see if your family fought alongside of my grandfather… TSIFTB….
Matt
Matt,
You should read Battling for Saipan by Frank O'Brien and Howlin' Mad vs. the Army by Harry Gailey.
Also, you can probably find a copy of the 27th Division Yearbook from 1940 on ebay.
Joel,
Thanks for the tip. I am going to pick up a copy of both of those books.
My father-in-law, who passed away at age 70, fought in the battle of Saipan. I know he was in the Army but not sure what unit he was with. I do know he was with the Army Engineers. His name was Martin Tonner from Bluffton Indiana and I believe he was a Lt or Capt. He never talked about his war experience so any information concerning him would be greatly appreciated.
It's likely he was part of the 27th Division if he was in the Army on Saipan. A Division yearbook, dating from 1940 at Fort McClellen, Alabama is usually available on ebay.
My Dad, F. Mervin (Merv) McConnell was drafted in 1942 from Kansas. He arrived at Pearl Harbor Dec 7. 1942 and was assigned to the 27th Division, 165th Infantry, Company K. He fought with the 27th until he was wounded on Okinawa, Easter Sunday 1945. He passed away at age 83 in 2005. Information from anyone or a family member of someone who served with him will be appreciated.
Phil,
I believe the 165th arrived in Hawaii in March of 1942. You should read Battling for Saipan. There are numerous references to the 165th. I do know this: The Marines couldn't take and hold the Aslito Airfield on Saipan. The 165th too the airfield and held it.
I was in the Marines 1969-72, I went to Saipan with my dad (Melvin Deiter). He was wounded their on July 3, 1944. He recieved the Purple Heart and was awarded the Bronze Star. We went there during the summer of 04 for the 60th reunion. While there we met Lee Marvin's wife, General Tibbets, a Navaho windtalker, and many other interesting veterans. It was a trip of a lifetime. Not bad for a couple of guy's from Maple Hill, Kansas.